Atlant washing machine - error F3, what to do

How good it is that modern washing machines, including those from the Belarusian brand Atlant, can use special codes to tell their owner what is preventing them from working properly! As for SMA Atlant, one of the most common indications of a problem is f3. She talks about problems with water heating.

What does error F3 mean on an Atlant washing machine?

Most often, the culprit of this phenomenon is the heating element, but malfunctions can also occur in other parts. In any case, you can solve the problem yourself, following the advice in this article, or order repair of the washing machine in our workshop.

✅ Call our master to your home for FREE: +7-982-231-69-66 .

Error F3 in Atlant cars without a display

If your Atlant does not have a screen, then it will report a problem using two signal indicators:

in SoftControl models , these are lights near the “Spin” and “Water Hold” LEDs;
in the OptimaControl series - “Water Stop” and “Rinse” LEDs.

Description of errors

In total, there are 15 key errors that can occur when operating these washing machines. Each code has its own unique meaning. It is his knowledge that allows you to correctly identify the problem that has arisen, and therefore quickly solve it.

Door, or F10. This inscription on the digital display indicates that the hatch is not closed and the device will not start working until the door is pressed tightly. If there is no display on the device, a sound signal will sound and the “Start” button will be inactive.

Sel - this code indicates that the connection between the main controller of the device and its operating modes with indication is broken. If there is no digital display, no light on the control panel will light up when this error occurs.

None – this error indicates that too much foam has formed inside the drum and further correct operation of the device is simply impossible. The indication will not work if there is no digital display.

Errors such as F2 and F3 indicate that there was a water failure in the machine. If there is no display on the device, then the indication will light up - buttons 2, 3 and 4 on the control panel.

Code F4 means that the device has a problem draining water. Namely, the drain filter is clogged. This error may also indicate problems with the drain hose or pump. If such a problem occurs, the second indicator will light up.

Error F5 indicates that there is no water flowing into the washing machine. This may indicate a malfunction in the inlet hose, outlet valve, inlet filter, or simply indicates that there is no water in the water main. If the code is not displayed on the display, then its occurrence is indicated by the simultaneous indication of 2 and 4 buttons.

F7 – code indicating problems with the electrical network. In such cases, all indication buttons are activated simultaneously.

F8 is a signal that the tank is full. The same error is indicated by the backlight of the first indicator on the control panel. This problem can arise either due to the actual overcrowding of the tank with water, or due to a malfunction of the entire device.

Error F9 or simultaneous illumination of indicators 1 and 4 indicates that the tachogenerator is faulty. That is, the problem is the incorrect operation of the engine, or more precisely, the frequency of its rotation.

F12 or the simultaneous operation of 1 and 2 indication buttons is evidence of one of the most serious problems - engine breakdowns.

F13 and F14 are evidence of malfunctions in the device control module itself. At the first error, the indication of buttons 1, 2 and 4 is triggered. In the second case - 1 and 2 indications.

F15 - an error indicating a water leak from the machine. If there is no digital display on the device, an audible signal will sound.

It is also important to understand that the reasons for the appearance of such malfunctions are not only different in each case, but sometimes they can appear due to an error in the operation of the entire device as a whole.

Error F3 - when you can fix it yourself

Low voltage in the electrical network . To solve the problem, contact your energy supply company.
One-time control module failure . Perhaps the control board has malfunctioned and needs to be rebooted. To do this, disconnect the SMA from the power supply (unplug the plug from the socket) and wait 10-15 minutes. Then turn on the washer. If the F3 code disappears, it was just a one-time failure, and your machine is fine.

In all other cases, unfortunately, we are talking about a breakdown.

Advice from professionals and preventive measures

These recommendations should always be followed:

Before starting any type of work, it is necessary to turn off the power to the washing machine and turn off the valve through which water is supplied.
After finishing the work cycle, you need to wipe all the rubber seals on the door with a soft, dry cloth. When wiping the outer surface of the machine and other plastic parts, you can use a damp rag. It is prohibited to use alcohol, abrasives and other chemical compounds that can cause damage to the machine.

The detergent container is washed periodically. To do this, you need to take it out and place it under running water, then put it back in its place.
The filters installed in the water supply system are cleaned annually. You just need to disconnect the water intake hose, take out the filter element, clean it of debris, put everything back in place and check the connections for leaks.
The pump filter is cleaned twice a year, all small objects accumulated there and thread residues are removed. Also, similar work is performed after woolen items have been washed. After removing the water, you need to open the lid with a sharp object, remove the hose completely, and remove the plug. Then the filter is taken out and washed, and everything returns to its place.

To avoid premature failure of the washing unit, it is recommended to install a stabilizing device. Sudden voltage drops can cause a break in the electrical circuit connecting the module and the heating element.

Another measure is to install a filter for cleaning. This measure is necessary to reduce water hardness and prevent the formation of scale.

It is necessary to use only high-quality powders and rinses.

To prevent overheating of the heating element, it is necessary to set the temperature regime slightly lower than the maximum value.

Possible faults requiring repair

Despite the fact that the reason for the lack of heating is most often a malfunction of the heating element, there are other components whose failure also leads to error F3. Only a technician can determine exactly what has gone wrong after carrying out diagnostics. But so that you understand what malfunctions you may encounter and how much repairs will cost, we provide a table of the most common Atlant failures with error F 3.

Heating element (heater) - from 1500 rub.

The heating element is burnt out or breaks through to the housing. In the second case, the machine can generate an error not only during heating of water, but also at any stage of the program.

Signs

Washing machine Atlant:

hangs on washing 5-15 minutes after turning it on and writes error F3. The water does not heat up.
The machine freezes on rinsing or spinning and displays F3.

How to fix

A faulty heating element must be replaced with a new one.

Temperature sensor (NTC) - from 1400 rub.

This unit is responsible for measuring the temperature of the water in the tank. When it fails, the control board cannot “detect” the water temperature, interrupts the cycle and displays code F3.

Signs

Washing machine Atlant:

hangs on washing 5-15 minutes after turning it on and writes error F3. The water does not heat up.
The machine freezes on rinsing or spinning and displays F3.

How to fix

The sensor must be replaced with a working one.

Control unit - from 2100 rub.

Often in Atlanta, the heating element relay “sticks”, other radio elements and/or board tracks in the heating circuit burn out. Often modules fail due to power surges in the network.

Signs

Washing machine Atlant:

hangs on washing 5-15 minutes after turning it on and writes error F3. The water does not heat up.
The machine freezes on rinsing or spinning and displays F3.

How to fix

It is necessary to solder damaged tracks and replace faulty board elements.

If the board is seriously damaged, the technician will replace it with a new one.

Firmware failure (“memory” of the SMA) - from 2100 rubles.

All the washing machine’s programs are stored in the “memory”, so when it gets lost, the machine does not carry out the specified program and gives an error.

Signs

The Atlant washing machine writes error F3 immediately when turned on.

How to fix

It is necessary to reprogram the “memory” of the control unit.

The wiring or contacts on the section of the circuit between the heating element and the control module are faulty - from 1600 rubles.

The signal is interrupted, which is why the machine does not heat the water. Most often, this malfunction occurs due to vibrations during operation of the AMS. In the private sector, wiring is often chewed by rats or mice.

Signs

Atlas starts washing, but does not heat the water. The error appears 10-15 minutes after the cycle starts.

Reasons for heater failure

There are two main reasons for heating element failure. This is a manufacturing defect and scale (rust).

Marriage occurs only in 2% of cases and appears within a month or two. Scale can settle on an element for 3-4 years before it fails. With careful use and high-quality powder, the service life can increase to 7-8 years.

There are also the following types of heater breakdowns:

Broken heating element contacts. If the wiring between the heater and the control board is broken, the heating element will not receive a signal to act, and therefore will not work.
Breakdown to the body. When the insulation layer of an element is broken, current leakage occurs. What does this mean: a breakdown can become critical, as it leads to a short circuit and electric shock.
Scale. A layer of scale prevents the heater from giving off heat. As a result, the element overheats and burns out.
Thermal relay failure. Incorrect temperature readings lead to damage to the heating element. As a result, SMA Atlant displays error F3.

How to avoid trouble

Forewarned is forearmed. To avoid premature failure, it is worth installing a stabilizer. It is sudden voltage surges that lead to a break in the electrical circuit between the module and the heating element in the Atlant SM.

Installing a cleaning filter will help prevent hard water and scale formation. Use quality detergents.

To avoid overheating of the heater, set the temperature not to the maximum settings, but slightly lower.

But how to fix the breakdown if the water is no longer heated and error F3 is displayed on the display? The solution to the problem is to replace the heating element in the Atlant washing machine.

Other malfunctions of Hisense washing machines

The Hisense (Hisense) models have some built-in protective functions. Their presence helps to identify problems in time and take the necessary measures. Most breakdowns can be fixed with your own hands within a few minutes.

The washing machine refuses to turn on

None of the lights are on.

Check:

Is the plug plugged into the outlet?
Is there voltage in the outlet - you can use any electrical appliance

The machine does not turn on, but the “Start” light is blinking

Check:

Is the Start button pressed?
Is the hatch closed tightly enough?
Is the "Tap Closed" light on? If it is on, you need to close it and press the “Start” button.

The device turns off spontaneously while the program is running

Check:

The “Drain delay” function may be enabled - if so, disable it
If the “Start-Pause” light blinks, another program has been selected
The door may be open - you should close it
There may be a lot of foam inside the drum. If the machine itself switches to the “Eliminate foam” mode. Then she herself will continue to work

Additives and detergents remain in the drawer after washing

Check:

How correctly are the meshes in the compartment separating the air conditioner, as well as the compartment separator, and clean the parts if they are dirty?
Is there enough water being supplied? The filters between the tap and the supply hose may be clogged. Clean if necessary
The detergent separator may not be installed correctly in the main wash compartment. This should be fixed.

Machine vibration during spin cycle

Check:

Is the device installed horizontally? Adjust the legs
Shipping bolts may not have been removed. They should be removed.

The machine does not spin clothes well

All Hisense models have a system for automatically correcting imbalance if it is detected. The spin speed may be deliberately slowed down if there are heavy items in the drum. These could be sweaters, bathrobes, etc.

Check:

Is too much detergent put into the machine? An overdose can lead to excessive foaming, which interferes with the spin cycle. This is not a breakdown, but the excess product needs to be removed.
Is the spin speed set to “Zero” by accident? Adjust the spin speed.

Motor test

It is better to entrust engine diagnostics to a professional repairman. However, you can figure out what to do and in what sequence on your own. The main thing is to first study the design of the motor and remember safety precautions. Our instructions will help you cope with the task.

Before starting the repair, let's remember how the engine works. Atlant washing machines are equipped with a commutator motor, which is compact and has higher power. The drive in this case is a belt drive - the engine and the drum shaft are connected by a belt through a pulley wheel. Inside, the part consists of several main parts: a rotor, a stator and electric brushes. There is also a tachogenerator that controls the acceleration speed.

To start checking the motor, you need to remove it from the machine, proceeding as follows:

remove the back wall of the machine by unscrewing the corresponding screws;
Rotating the pulley, unhook the drive belt;
take a photograph of the position of the wiring connected to the engine;
release the wires;
loosen the bolts holding the engine;
swing the part and pull it towards you.

Having taken out the engine, we place it on a dry, flat surface and begin checking. We connect the wiring from the stator and rotor windings, and then apply 220 V to them. Under voltage, the engine should begin to pick up speed. If this does not happen, then the motor is damaged and needs repair.

This method has its drawbacks. Firstly, it is impossible to test the operation of the motor in different modes. Secondly, connecting the engine directly is risky due to the possibility of a short circuit. Although, as a last resort, you can reduce the risks by including ballast in the circuit in the form of a heater. When leaking, the latter will begin to heat up, protecting the engine from fire. But supplying current is only the initial stage of diagnosis; then it is necessary to check other elements of the device, brushes, lamellas and windings.

Water supply is difficult or absent

If you find an error code on the display, do not panic; in most cases, you can fix the problem yourself. First of all, make sure that the water supply is functioning, in case the water in your house is simply turned off. If everything is in order with the utilities, check the tee valve; perhaps the liquid supply to the machine is simply shut off. If everything is fine with the water outlet, you need to inspect the filter mesh located on the inlet valve for blockages.

To examine and, if necessary, clean the filter element yourself, perform the following steps:

Turn off the power to the washing machine, turn off the water supply valve to the machine;
disconnect the machine’s inlet hose from the body, thereby providing yourself with free access to the mesh filter. Be careful, residual water may leak out of the hose, so be sure to use a dry cloth when unscrewing it;
remove the filter element from the structure: lightly squeeze the filter with pliers and gently pull it towards you;
clean the mesh; it is recommended to rinse it under warm running water;

if the contamination is severe, first soak the element for one hour in a special solution: pour 1 teaspoon of citric acid into a glass of warm water;
install the filter mesh in its original place, screwing the element in until it stops;
connect the water supply hose;
open the valve responsible for supplying water to the system, make sure that the connection point does not leak;
Plug the machine into the network and launch one of the special programs. If the unit draws water to the required level and finishes the selected washing mode, then the breakdown has been eliminated.

At the same time as washing the mesh, you can clean the inlet hose of the washing machine. It, of course, needs less frequent cleaning compared to the drain hose, but clean tap water still contains various impurities that will certainly settle in the cavity.

By installing water softening filters at the entrance to the automatic machine, you can improve the quality of the liquid entering the system and, as a result, reduce contamination of the washing machine elements.

If the fault cannot be eliminated, it is necessary to proceed to the next stage of work, namely, diagnosing and replacing the water intake solenoid valve.

Troubleshooting

Some faults can be dealt with on your own: both identified and eliminated. Others will require a specialist to diagnose and repair.

Diagnostics by error code

If the built-in electronic control units receive erroneous information, they will indicate a problem and display an error code on the display. The Atlant refrigerator indicates errors with the following combinations of symbols:

Fault code F1 indicates a breakdown of the refrigerator compartment temperature sensor (R1).
F2 indicates a fault in the refrigerator compartment evaporator sensor (R2). If your model is equipped with the Full No Frost function, this signal refers to the freezer compartment.
F3: The freezer thermostat (R3) is not working properly. Full No Frost uses this code to indicate a problem with the freezer evaporator sensor or defrost circuit.
Error F4 indicates a decrease in voltage, less than 170 V. Most often, this problem occurs in the afternoon or evening, when electrical appliances are turned on for a large number of users.
Atlant refrigerator, error 5F - how to fix it yourself. Increased voltage, above 250-255 V, leads to the display of code F5 on the display. After the indicator is normalized, the designation will disappear. If the error appears too often, you should contact the service center. Below we will consider what such an indication may be associated with.
In double-compressor refrigerators, there are frequent cases of malfunctions F6 and F7 - in the operation of the motors of the refrigeration and freezer compartments, respectively.
A flashing “H” symbol (from the English “high” - high) displayed on the display indicates an increase in temperature in one (1 letter “H”) or both (2 letters “H”) compartments. The “L” symbol that appears (from the English “low” - low) warns of the opposite - freezing of food.
E1/E2: Code E1 indicates a malfunction in the evaporator heater in the freezer, and E2 indicates incorrect operation of the evaporator defrost system.

The code designations are specified in the operating instructions for the device.

Repair

In specialized service centers, technicians conduct diagnostics to decide how to eliminate the F5 error in the Atlant refrigerator. This is not always due to a faulty socket, plug or cord. The electronic control module often fails, requiring replacement of the board or its components.

It is unlikely that you will be able to figure out on your own how to resolve the E2 error in the Atlant refrigerator. This malfunction is associated with a malfunction in the auto-defrost system and a malfunction of the evaporator thermostat. You have to change the sensor, and in some cases the module itself.

How to eliminate error F7 in the Atlant refrigerator: if the problem is not a simple power surge or a “glitch” of the control controller, you will need repair or complete replacement of the board, compressor or its contacts.

Checking the electrical circuit

If all the elements have been checked and the error code has not disappeared, it’s time to think about the serviceability of the wires connecting the engine and the control module. Take a multimeter and start calling each wire. If you find that any of them does not ring, you need to replace it. We also recommend not to trust single measurements and measure the entire cable bundle at least 2 times, since with the testing method under consideration, errors in measurements can sometimes occur.

Well, if the circuit is working properly, then the fault is still in the electronic module. You will have to contact a good service center, since it is not recommended to repair the control module yourself for the reason that you need specialized tools and skills. As we have already said, sometimes problems with the board are related to the firmware, and not to a hardware failure.

Main sound and light indicators in Atlant refrigerators

The light indication is represented by 4 multi-colored lights (red, yellow and a pair of green):

The red indicator located on the front panel lights up when the temperature in the freezer compartment rises above the required temperature. This happens when the refrigerator is connected to the power supply after defrosting, when there is a large amount of warm, not yet cooled food in the chamber, or when the door is open for a long time to place or unload food. After the compartment temperature reaches the set value, the light should go out. Usually 10 minutes is enough for this.
When the green indicators for the freezer and refrigerator compartments are on, they are constantly on and indicate normal operation. If there is a power outage or the refrigerator is disconnected from the network, it goes out.
The yellow light comes on when you turn on the “Freeze” mode with the key. When the required temperature is reached, the indicator will go off. It is worth remembering that operating the equipment in this mode for more than 12 hours is undesirable.

Dismantling of electronic-mechanical and electronic freezers

A broken thermostat is such a serious malfunction that it almost always requires its complete replacement. When removing the thermostat from refrigerators of electromechanical design, you must first disconnect all electrical contacts from the thermostat. The thermostat is removed only after removing the lighting unit.

Removing the thermostat from the freezers of electronic models of the Atlant refrigerator is carried out according to a different, much simpler scheme. It is enough to disconnect the wires connecting it to the temperature sensor from the control unit.

Installing the Thermostat

When installing a new thermostat on electronic-mechanical refrigerators, you must first connect all the necessary electrical contacts to the thermostat. After which the thermocouple should be passed into the evaporator channel and the entire remaining space of the hole should be filled with sealant.

In electronic versions of Atlant, you just need to stretch the wire with the temperature sensor to the control module and solder it to it.

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